We Kept Building Anyway: Standing Up in Reconstruction

Reconstruction was one of the most hopeful and dangerous times in Vicksburg’s history. Newly freed families built schools, founded churches, and voted for their own leaders.

Peter Crosby: From Soldier to Sheriff
Born enslaved, Peter Crosby served in the 5th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery during the Civil War. In 1873, he became Warren County’s first Black sheriff. His election symbolized the promise of Reconstruction.

Backlash and Violence
In December 1874, Crosby was forced from office by an armed mob of white supremacists. When Black residents rallied to support him, violence erupted. The Vicksburg Massacre left as many as 300 Black citizens dead.

Building Despite Terror
Even in the face of terror, Vicksburg’s Black community continued to build schools, mutual aid societies, and churches. They knew progress was fragile but refused to abandon the work.

The story of Peter Crosby reminds us that freedom is not secure without vigilance. Leaders stood up, communities built anyway — and their legacy still inspires us to keep building.